Kananaskis Country is considered an unbanite's playground. -- Photos courtesy of Travel Alberta

Q: We're planning a winter trip to Alberta where we'll be spending a few days in Calgary. Are there any outdoor activities nearby? -- W. Mead, Vaughan

A: Why not venture to Kananaskis? Dubbed "K Country," this wilderness juggernaut sprawls west of Calgary and the mantra here is "play and play." This is an urbanite's playground of golf, ski and hiking trails with its own provincial park named after their former premier Peter Lougheed. In winter, Mount Allen is blanketed with thick snow, making Nakiska an alpine skier's paradise. As the host site of the 1988 Winter Olympics, a $5-million snowmaking machine guarantees there will be lots of powder. It's a 49-minute drive from Calgary and is perfect for the novice and the pro. For reservations call 800-258-7669 or go to skinakiska.com. For info on Kananaskis, visit kananaskisalberta.ca.

Q: I realize the Shaw Festival gets under way in a few months. But for our daughter's birthday, I would like to take her to see one of the productions this spring. Do you know if we can buy tickets soon?

-- G. Testa, Toronto

A: The Shaw Festival's box office is open. The 2005 season includes 10 productions such as Bernard Shaw's You Can Never Tell set to open April 24. It is considered one of Shaw's most light-hearted plays. The musical Gypsy with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim will start April 12 while Happy End, a classic musical from Kurt Weill and Bertolt Brecht, begins May 15. For tickets and brochures, call the Shaw Festival Box Office at 800-511-SHAW.

A downhill skier slices thourgh the snow at Fortress Mountain.